There are important steps taken before the drywall finishing process starts.
- Step 1 is to apply joint tape to all the seams (joints) and angles with joint compound (mud).
- Step 2 is to apply joint compound (mud) over the tape, angles, and screw lines, so that they are reinforced. This is done multiple times throughout the drywall coating process.
- Step 3 Surface is now ready for texture to be applied or drywall finishing.
We have knowledge of a wide variety of textures we can provide to our customers. Most common request is to match the existing texture in the home. But texture is a personal preference and can be customized.
Below is a list of textures that we can skillfully produce.
Spray Textures (joint compound is custom mixed for each spray texture)
Knock Down– This texture consists of spraying on the texture with a hopper gun using an air compressor. The air pressure is adjusted to match the existing pattern of the original texture. After it is sprayed a knock-down blade is glided over it to make the texture flat and the pattern is achieved.
Orange Peel – This texture is sprayed; however, it is sprayed at higher pressure. The pattern is similar to that of a surface of an orange. It is a lighter texture, so the finish work underneath must be really good so imperfections are not visible through the texture.
Splatter- this texture is sprayed, but it’s not as high pressure as orange peel. It provides more coverage to the surface which makes this texture heavy.
Hand Applied Textures (joint compound is custom mixed for each hand texture)
Hawk-n-Trowel – The most common and standard texture applied in homes today. Most new homes have this texture. It is applied with a trowel by making random motions that give a distinct pattern. This texture is easier to match for any future repairs.
Skip Trowel- This kind of texture uses a thinned down mixture of joint compound to make a skipping pattern. A 12” drywall blade is used to apply it. This is an older texture more prevalent in the 70s and 80s but gives a great overall look.
Swirl Texture- This particular texture was prevalent in late 60s into the 70s. It’s rolled on with a paint roller and then a trowel is used to give it subtle ‘swirl’ marks. This texture is on the light side.
Imperfect Smooth or Barrio– This kind of texture is popular for its look. After the surface is prepped for texture a thin skim coat is applied to the entire surface to give the appearance of smooth wall. However, there are imperfections intentionally left to give the texture some decoration.
Smooth – This texture goes as high as level 5 which means five coats. A sand is done after every coat to the joints and screw lines. Minimal imperfections are left behind. This texture can be costlier due to the details involved.
Stipple- Mainly used in 50s, 60s and 70s. It’s achieved by using a stipple brush stomped onto the surface after joint compound is rolled on. It gives a very distinct pattern.
We are proficient in a wide variety of drywall textures. Matching an existing texture for a repair where new drywall aligns with existing drywall is an art form. There are many variables that have to be considered. We use knowledge and experience to humbly produce textures for our clients.
There are many details in all types of textures so knowing what tools to use, to the consistency of the joint compound to be mixed, are key factors for creating a professionally finished product.
